Japanese Calligraphy Workshop

Experience the Art of Shodo along with Wagashi Tasting at Kozenji Temple

The Art of Slowing Down: Shodo and Wagashi

Trade the crowded city sights for the quiet resonance of a 500-year-old sanctuary. We are gathering at Kozenji Temple, a place that has stood for over five centuries as a peaceful sanctuary in Hirakata.

We’ll start the afternoon in the temple’s historic hall—a space that has been used for reflection and gathering for centuries. Under the guidance of a professional instructor, you’ll explore the rhythmic, calming art of Japanese calligraphy.

Once your artwork is complete, we will move to the temple’s private Japanese garden, where we’ll share some tea and authentic Wagashi (Japanese sweets). These treats are prepared specially for our group to enjoy in the fresh air.

The Experience

A Space with Soul: You’ll be practicing in a hall that is over 520 years old, moving at a slower pace than the busy city outside.
Tea in the Garden: We’ll enjoy our sweets in a historic garden designed by the famous Ishikawa Jozan, featuring a pond that dates back to the temple’s very beginning.
Hands-on & Personal: This isn’t a lecture; it’s a hands-on workshop where you get to create something unique with your own hands.
Warm Local Welcome: Our Japanese neighbors will be there to help with English support and share stories about the temple’s life.

“I’d been running around Osaka all week and this was the first time I actually felt relaxed. It was just a cool way to spend an hour with a local and learn something real. I still have my ink drawing on my wall at home.”

Pricing and benefits

The 4,000 yen participation fee covers everything you need for the afternoon—no hidden costs or extra materials to bring.

Experienced calligraphy teacher who will help you find your rhythm with the brush.
High-quality ink, traditional paper, and the use of professional brushes are all provided.
A serving of authentic Wagashi (Japanese sweets), specially selected for the season, enjoyed with tea in the temple’s private garden.
The rare opportunity to spend time inside a 520-year-old temple hall and its historic landscape garden.
Friendly Japanese locals will be on hand to help with translation and share the history of the temple grounds.

Cancellation Policy
– Free cancellation up to 7 days before the experience
– 50% refund for cancellations made 3–6 days before
– No refund within 48 hours or for no-shows
Materials and sweets are prepared in advance — thank you for your understanding.

Next Available Date

Saturday, May 16th, 2026

Duration

2 hours

Instructors

Professional calligraphy instructor

Price

¥4,000

What's included

All materials provided, as well as Japanese sweets tasting and green tea. English support available!

Location

Shinshuotaniha Deguchigobo Kozenji

10-minute walk from Keihan Railway’s “Kōzenji Station”

Ready to join?

Because we want to keep this experience intimate and quiet, spaces are limited. Please get in touch to check availability for the May 16th event.

Your home base in the heart of Kansai

Perfectly placed between Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, Hirakata is a quiet home base for the "real" Japan. Spend your mornings mastering a local craft and your afternoons exploring the big city sights—it’s the best of both worlds, with a friendly community to come home to.

Learn from locals

Your Kansai Hub

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